The Effect of Harp Music on Heart Rate, Mean Blood Pressure, Respiratory Rate, and Body Temperature in the African Green Monkey

Descriptive Note:

Journal article

Corporate Author:

ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD

Personal Author(s):

Report Date:

2007-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

7.0

Abstract:

The effectiveness of recorded harp music as a tool for relaxation for nonhuman primates NHP is explored in this study. Konigsberg Instruments Model T27F-1B cardiovascular telemetry devices were implanted into nine African green monkeys Chlorocebus aethiops. After post-surgical recovery, animals were exposed to recorded harp music. Telemetry data were collected on heart rate, mean blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature for a 30-minute baseline period before music exposure a 90-minute period of music exposure and a 90-minute postexposure period, where no music was played. The results showed no statistical differences in heart rate, mean blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature among pre-exposure, exposure, and postexposure periods. The authors conclude that the lack of response in these African green monkeys may be attributable to their generally calm demeanor in captivity. Experiments with a more excitable species, such as the rhesus macaque, might demonstrate a significant relaxation response to music.